During the pandemic, access to school and public libraries fluctuated as COVID-19 forced temporary closures and limited services. Knowing that children were still in need of continued early learning support, Anythink looked for opportunities to reach kids where they are. As interest in subscription boxes has grown over the past few years, the library felt this model provided a unique approach to getting library materials to children whose families may not be able to visit the library as frequently as they like.

Families sign up to receive the Anythink Box using an online form to provide information about age, interests and reading level. Monthly, Anythink staff use that data to package hand-selected books tailored to a child’s interest. In addition to library materials, The Anythink Box also includes a personal note along with a “yours to keep” item. The boxes are delivered directly to homes, providing that special feeling of surprise and delight for kids.

At launch, the Anythink Box was so popular that it sold out of its initial 250 spots. To meet the demands of the waitlist, funds were raised by the Anythink Foundation — the 501(c)(3) organization that raises private funds for the library — to support its expansion. With funding, Anythink extended the service to more families. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. One customer wrote: “It was my oldest kiddo’s turn for an Anythink Box. She LOVED it. She’s so excited to email her thoughts on the books to ‘her’ librarian.”